Try this on black if you can. I was the photographer last night for the town's parade and Santa's visit with the children. Took well over 250 pictures so you know where I've been all day. This is Jerik, my great grandson (and it's the closest he'd get to Santa when he arrived!) Was such fun to see the children with Santa - and often the whole family got in the shot. But shooting the parade after dark without use of a tripod is a nightmare. No good options though.
He is just the epitome of children and Christmas! It sounds like you had a job on your hands taking care of the whole community. Just one reason why I could never be a professional photographer. Other than lack of talent, I mean:)
This shot works really well. You're right about the background. I really like the way you make the empty chair a part of the story. For what it is worth my grand-daughter will have nothing to do with Santa, but she loves Christmas.
